Inzaghi's mooted appointment another risk for Milan

A little over four months ago, the Milan hierarchy decided to place its faith in an inexperienced coach that knew the club well and had a vision that would bring in a new cycle of success. Such was their confidence in him that a long-term contract ensued, yet reports claim Clarence Seedorf will officially replaced in the coming days after half a season in charge.

The Dutchman faced difficulties on the pitch, arguably not all his own doing considering the quality of the squad at his disposal, and reports of a breakdown in relations with Adriano Galliani suggested that it was merely a matter of time before he was shown the door.

Speculation has since linked various coaches with the role, from Luciano Spalletti seemingly emerging as a favourite within the Italian media to Sevilla coach Unai Emery, who is now expected to sign an extension with the Spanish club.

Nevertheless, from being paired with experienced coaches across Europe, it appears Milan will resort to promoting from within, and that will see fan favourite Filippo Inzaghi make the daunting step up from youth level to the senior squad.

Along with Galliani and president Silvio Berlusconi, the trio held a three-hour summit on Monday night which effectively sent the rumour mill turning, and the news has been greeted with widespread optimism for the former striker with the likes of Carlo Ancelotti and Cristian Brocchi insisting he has the characteristics required of a top level coach.

Meanwhile, talks will continue with Seedorf regarding a severance package, and despite positive results on the pitch, ultimately the former midfielder is likely to pay the price for his inability to evolve the playing style while reportedly failing to maintain relationships with the powers that be.

Seedorf spoke glowingly of his desire to help the club rediscover the joy of playing football upon his arrival, and aside from brief glimpses against Juventus and Atletico Madrid, too often was his philosophy absent in the system and approach.

While it is still harsh to consider that he will potentially not even be given the summer to continue his work, perhaps it is right the decision in the long-term, but the appointment of another relative novice is concerning.

Inzaghi does have the benefit of coaching at youth level and in a general sense he has been successful in that role, yet there is undoubtedly a risk involved in the decision and naturally there is a concern that the same situation could repeat itself in a few months' time.

If Milan are to rebuild and embark on a new cycle, then stability is one of the key components of bringing back success. The Rossoneri also need to be clear with the supporters on their vision, with reports claiming that former Milan boss Arrigo Sacchi will return to the club as the new chief of youth development.

If there is structure and a long-term plan in place then patience will follow, but ultimately the club have been slightly erratic in their behaviour over the last six months and they need to be certain that Inzaghi is the man to instil their philosophy and get results.